Human dentin matrix induces cartilage formation in vitro by mesenchymal cells derived from embryonic muscle.

Dentin matrix was assayed for its potential to elicit chondrogenesis of mesenchymal cells in vitro. The substratum was prepared by demineralization of human tooth root dentin, while embryonic thigh muscle was used as a source of mesenchymal cells. Formation of chondrocytes from mesenchymal cells occurred in the presence of dentin matrix, and in the same sequence as previously shown with substrata of demineralized bone.